Campaign To 'rescue' Child (Press, 21 April 1986)
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Summary: Campaign To 'rescue' Child (Press, 21 April 1986)
A Napier-based group has initiated a fundraising campaign, aiming to gather $40,000 to assist Eve van Grafhorst, a victim of A.I.D.S., and her family who are facing persecution in Australia. The campaign, entitled “A Life For Eve,” was organised by journalist Robert Stockdill, who reported that over $5,000 had been raised within the first 24 hours. The funds are intended to help the family move to New Zealand and establish financial support for Eve's treatment and education upon their arrival. The van Grafhorst family is planning to relocate to Hawke’s Bay, where Mrs Gloria van Grafhorst's family resides. They have spent the last two weeks in the area awaiting test results for A.I.D.S. Stockdill described how he had witnessed media coverage of the family's maltreatment in Australia due to the community's lack of understanding and fear regarding A.I.D.S. He met the van Grafhorst family about ten days ago and stayed in touch, ultimately deciding to raise funds after learning of their desire to settle in New Zealand but facing financial barriers. Stockdill expressed a desire to support the family, highlighting that their circumstances were beyond their control. Eve contracted the A.I.D.S. virus from a blood transfusion involving an infected donor. Following the public disclosure of her condition, both Eve’s parents lost their jobs, their rented home, and suffered abuse and ridicule from the community. Stockdill noted Mrs van Grafhorst's optimism regarding their potential reception in New Zealand, pointing out her appreciation for the kindness shown to them during their stay in Hastings. Eve and her mother returned to Australia the previous Saturday evening, while efforts continue to secure employment for Mr John van Grafhorst, a painter.
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